TOURISM GLOBAL COST FROM COVID CRISIS Six months into the global health pandemic and still the world is still virtually grounded. Summer in the northern hemisphere is ending as schools aim to return to normal, while government assistance is also winding down in many countries, while we begin to again see a rise in cases in many nations. A new report from the UN aims to measure to loss to the world's tourism industry; at least UK£903 billion, or 1.5% of global GDP after 4 months of travel being shut down. If travel is still restricted for 8months, this figure could rise to UK£1.6 trillion and 2.8% of global GDP and if no return to some normality lasts for a year, losses could soar to UK£2.5 trillion, 4.2% of global GDP). Developing countries such as Jamaica, Kenya and Thailand that rely heavily on tourism will experience the greatest shocks to their economies. However, wealthy countries will also be hit. The USA will lose far more than any other country in dollar terms and nearly double that of China. Other developed countries suffering from tourism's downturn include France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Portugal, Spain and the UK. For years global tourism has been increasing, both in value and as a pillar of many countries' economies. International travel and tourism grew by 3.5% in 2019 compared to the previous year. Today, travel and tourism directly accounts for more than 3% of global GDP. When factoring in other industries that benefit from travel and tourism, such as retail and entertainment, tourism indirectly accounts for 10% of the world's economy. It is thought that 125 million of the 330 million jobs tied to tourism around the world will be lost in 2020, with a return to pre-2020 levels not expected until 2024 at the earliest.
INDONESIA CLOSES DOOR TO TOURISTS UNTIL VACCINE FOUND
Bali, Indonesia
Indonesia is to keep its doors closed to tourists until a coronavirus vaccine is found and immunity can be provided. Indonesia has been conducting final clinical testing for a COVID-19 vaccine candidate. Once clinical testing for about 6½ months is completed, vaccine production will immediately start and offer immunity to the general public. The recovery of domestic tourism will be the 1st target before reopening to tourists from abroad. Indonesia is also in negotiations with some countries to set up travel corridors for business travellers. Indonesia has reached agreements with South Korea and the United Arab Emirates for travel bubbles. Indonesia’s tourism sector is facing potential losses of UK£3 billion from the decline in tourism.
PARIS AIMS TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE HEALTH CRISIS TO CURB MASS TOURISM
France is one of the world most visited countries and many visitors come from China and the USA and spend their yen and dollars in the capital, Paris. However, the capital's tourism sector cannot count on the French to compensate for the drop in arrivals, despite ideal visiting conditions. Paris is used to tourists; however, the growing amount of mass tourism, with large groups moving in packs was having a negative effect on the city, its attractions and its citizens. Many in the French capital are calling on the local government to better manage flows. Huge queues, booking in advance essential is no way to experience a country’s wonders. After reopening, the Louvre saw daily visitors reach 7,500-9,000 daily visitors compared to the normal 30,000 to 40,000 people a day in high summer. Paris is not expecting a big jump in visitors in the coming years, except for specific events like the Olympic Games in summer 2024. So now is an ideal time to readjust the balance and work on directing visitors to other, lesser known, attractions of the capital, hoping to thin out crowds.
